With a whopping 662.7 million views and counting, #capsulewardrobe is among the most popular fashion TikTok trends—and it’s not hard to see why. A method that promises to streamline your closet with a set number of pieces and eliminate the dreaded what-should-I-wear outfit roulette? Who wouldn’t want that?
Since its introduction in the 1970s by London boutique owner Susie Faux, the capsule wardrobe—a collection of trend-proof pieces that can be mixed and matched to create endless outfits—has carved out a niche in the fashion community. Gaining popularity in the 1980s with Donna Karan’s Seven Easy Pieces collection, the concept had a resurgence in the 2010s as early fashion bloggers took on a distinct uniform of neutral pieces. Still, the capsule wardrobe remained relatively in the fashion background until 2020, when so many people were focusing on the essentials, seeking simplicity, and re-evaluating their lives—and suddenly, the idea of a capsule wardrobe was more attractive than ever. Many of us have been filling our closets with beige blazers and white tees ever since.
When I heard about the capsule wardrobe, I was sold. Sign me up, I thought as I read the articles, followed the bloggers, and bought all the things I was told I needed to create a capsule wardrobe of my own. I created a separate little space in my closet just for my capsule wardrobe so as to not be distracted by the rest of my clothing. I even started to document my journey on my blog. I was fully invested.
For a few weeks, things were going well. I was less overwhelmed when looking in my closet, and I felt I found my style stride. That is, until I tried to style that little black dress, the one all the capsule wardrobe experts say you needed. I will spare you the details, but it wasn’t working, no matter how hard I tried. So I fell back into the “What should I wear?” spiral I’d been trying to escape. I was so confused! I followed the steps, I purchased all the things, and right before my eyes, the “perfect” capsule wardrobe was failing me. I had streamlined my closet to make it work better, and in an instant, it made things worse.
All of that shopping, and for what? In our consumerist society, the capsule wardrobe concept isn’t about just winnowing down your clothing; it’s about buying even more, “better” items. And it’s not about having a single capsule wardrobe, but about having many of them. Three years into the capsule wardrobe’s big comeback, the idea has extended beyond the original concept of a collection of clothes you wear all year round. There are now workwear, seasonal, and vacation capsules—not to mention the rise of brands such as ADAY, Cuyana, and Quince, whose entire ethos is the capsule wardrobe. Even fast fashion brands are getting in on the trend: H&M encourages shoppers to “be more discerning about the clothes we purchase” in a guide to building a workwear capsule wardrobe.
I had streamlined my closet to make it work better, and in an instant, it made things worse.
But brands are merely responding to consumer interest in capsules. Fashion publications show readers how to adopt a capsule wardrobe, adding their affiliate links throughout their articles for readers to shop. If you see something that you really want to buy, that’s great, but the idea of a capsule is to eliminate the need to constantly buy. To me, it’s counterintuitive to preach “less but better” while promoting buying in the same breath. It’s also not lost on me that the featured pieces—a $250 bodysuit, a $1,300 black dress as in this Vogue article—are often too expensive for the average person. These splurges are often spun as “investment pieces,” making you think you need to spend that kind of money and that somehow, spending beyond your means is a wise decision.
And as for that distinct uniform that bloggers and influencers popularized? It’s a minimalist starter pack all in neutrals: white button-downs, black trousers, beige trench coats, and that little black dress. Since the capsule has been defined that way for years, many people believe they need those exact things in order to have their own capsule wardrobe—and so they add those items to cart. But that style might not work for everyone; it didn’t for me or for TikTok user @thevictorialau, whose video about her own capsule wardrobe fail inspired my own TikTok. People tell you that the point of a capsule is to have a curated number of clothes that can mix and match with each other for endless looks, but what they don’t tell you is that it should be tailored to you. It should fit your lifestyle, the colors you like, and (most importantly) the pieces you like to wear.
It’s common to find fashion creators selling the benefits of a capsule along with pieces their followers “need,” especially because doing so can result in large commission checks. Yet far fewer extol the benefits of making do with what’s already in one’s closet. “Influencers in this space have a duty to always encourage people to shop mindfully and their own closets first, as this is the true spirit of capsules and minimalism,” says Christina Mychas, a fashion influencer who promotes the concept of minimalism. “When influencers start disguising full-on clothing hauls as a capsule wardrobe, that’s when it feels a little more icky to me—like capitalizing on the trend to use the hashtag versus actually participating in the lifestyle.”
With all of this capsule wardrobe madness, it’s easy to get sucked in and find yourself lost, along with your money. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We all have a built-in capsule that exists within our wardrobe: It’s those pieces we constantly gravitate to. If you want to create your own capsule, use those treasured pieces as a guide, buying only when you’re looking to replace or fill in a hole you find. Your capsule should be a reflection of your personal style, so it can look however you want and should take you time to build. If you feel any pressure, it may not be the right time to create one. Personally, I’ve awakened from my capsule wardrobe slumber and have an edit of clothing that suits me. And it doesn’t include a little black dress.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
When you either live in a really cold place, or are vacationing in a really cold place, the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold are essential. There’s cold places and then there’s really cold places. I, for one, live in a really cold place. Lake Placid, New York is a small tourist town tucked away in upstate New York. Not, like, the Castkills upstate. Like, Canadian border upstate. Come winter, temps regularly hit below freezing. The icy, snowy weather mixed with the access to mountains (hello, skiing!) have landed it not one, but two winter Olympic games. Simply put, the place is freakin’ cold and having the right cold winter gear is pretty much mandatory.
Living in what is effectively the tundra, I have learned to dress for such volatile weather. And while things like snow boots and fleece-lined leggings are very much needed, the one essential I recommend for keeping out the chill is a winter coat for the extreme cold. It’s a non-negotiable. And not just any old winter coat but the right winter coat—these are the pieces that keep you warm when the temps hit the negatives or keep you dry when a snow squall blows through during your casual evening stroll.
If you’re gearing up for a long, chilly winter and are in the market for a new coat, you’ve come to the right place. Take it from someone who lives in a cold place—these are the best women’s winter coats for the extreme cold.
Shop the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, recycled down fill
This is my go-to parka that I’ll toss on for running errands, walking the dog, weekend getaways—just about anything. It comes down to your knees, which, IMO, is perfect parka length. As for the specs: It’s filled with a recycled 600-fill down that’s warm without being stuffy or chunky, so you can layer in comfort. It also has a water-repellent finish on the recycled polyester exterior, which helps keep snowy moisture at bay. If you’re looking for a solid overall pick, this is a solid bet.
Columbia’s Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket has a heat-reflective lining and a synthetic down lining. For light snow, rain, and wind, this toasty coat is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s feature-friendly, with extras like a sherpa-lined hood (to keep your ears snug) and a 2-way zipper that can allow for better mobility.
Sizes: XXS-M | Colors: 2 | Materials: Down insulation, recycled nylon lining, polyester and cotton outer
This water-resistant Canada Goose parka may be pricey, but is loaded with features to keep you warm. It has a 625-fill-power down insulation, a removable extended hood trim, and snap closures on the cuffs and the back to lock in heat. It has interior and exterior pockets, as well as handy backpack straps inside that let you carry your jacket hands-free.
Sizes: XXS-XL (with petite, regular, and plus options) | Colors: 5 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, DownTek insulation
You can’t beat L.L.Bean for affordable, high-quality winter coats. The Mountain Classic Down Parka is filled with 650-fill DownTek down insulation (which is coated to stay dry and prevent clumping) and is rated for temps down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The recycled shell repels moisture and stops the wind chill, too, without clumping the down or getting it wet. It also has a detachable hood. For under $200, this jacket is a winner.
This jacket has a snuggly fill, thigh-length design, and added fur-trim parka. It’s crafted to be totally sealed against cold temps and has a thick layer of insulation for protection and warmth, plus a double enclosure and windproof ribbed cuffs to keep the chill out. It’s also waterproof.
This jacket, nicknamed “the Amazon coat,” has been the star of many an Instagram feed. It’s affordable, stylish, and warm. It has a fleece-lined hood, side zippers to let you wear it looser, and so many roomy pockets (six) that you’ll almost never need to carry a bag again. Better yet, it comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes. You can also find styles with a fur-lined hood if that’s your jam.
If you do live in a place where temps frequent below zero, I would recommend investing in an Woolrich jacket. The brand is beloved for all things cold-weather, and while expensive, its products are worth it. The Aurora is a full-length parka with an insulated hood, made to withstand temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, too.
Pros:
Withstands temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit
This jacket has everything you want out of a resort or backcountry jacket—lightweight, yet reliable insulation that doesn’t compromise movement, an exterior that actually stops moisture in its tracks, a helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, pockets for hands-free storage, and more.
Waterproof and breathable, the Stio Environ jacket is made with recycled fabric that will keep you dry and warm on the mountain. It has a removable hood, underarm vents, pockets inside and out, and a snow skirt for those long days on the slopes or tubing hills. Plus, Stio is Carbon Neutral Certified, making this one of the more sustainable picks on our list.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with standard and plus options) | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled nylon outer, 700-fill goose down insulation
Throw it back to the ’90s (or 1996, to be exact), which is when the original version of this puffer was introduced. This version still has that retro look, but with modern touches. It’s made of recycled fabrics, and has 700-fill down, a water-repellent exterior, and a stowable hood. The jacket also packs itself into the right hand pocket, which is super handy for travel.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with regular and tall options) | Colors: 1 | Materials: Recycled nylon, 3M Thinsulate down alternative insulation
Not everyone likes the Jet Puff fluffernutter look of a down jacket. That’s okay—you can get something slim that still stays warm, like this parka from Athleta. Instead of down, it’s filled with a lightweight alternative to traditional feather fluff. The exterior is made of recycled, water-repellent nylon, leaving you with a featherlight coat that is quietly cozy—without overdoing it.
This award-winning jacket is built for the slopes but can be worn just well off them, too. It’s made with three sturdy layers of waterproof protection that keep you dry and warm (but never sweaty or sticky). Just note, It’s technically a shell which means it’s made for layering and keeping your clothes dry from wind, rain, and snow (aka, layer up).
Like its name suggests, the Ghost Whisperer Hoody from Mountain Hardwear packs down in a pinch, so you’ll forget anything’s there. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor adventures alike. Still, this coat packs a lot of heat: with 800-fill RDS-certified goose down insulation and an elastic draw-cord hem, you’ll have no problem fending off the cold winter air.
Pros:
Super lightweight and easy to stow
Recycled, water-resistant nylon ripstop shell
Cons:
Only standard sizes available (no plus or petites)
The outside of this jacket is a weather-resistant material that sloughs off rain, sleet, and snow. But the inside features a wool insulator designed to keep you snug as a bug whether you’re running up a mountain or down the road. It’s airy and durable, built to stay to warm stride after stride.
Noize is a one-stop shop for all things cruelty free, eco-friendly, and sustainably-made. This mid-length heavyweight parka does a darn good job keeping the cold out when the temps drop. In true Noize fashion, there’s no bird feathers or animal fur—everything is vegan, so you can look good and feel good, too.
Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, which means ethical sustainability is built into all of their products. This jacket is not only warm, water-resistant, and lightweight, but it’s also made with responsibly-sourced down. It has elastic binding at the hood and cuffs to keep heat inside, and it comes in a ton of colorful patterns. One percent of company revenues also goes to the Cotopaxi Foundation to help alleviate poverty.
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Organic cotton and recycled nylon lining, recycled down
This long puffer is versatile and casual enough to pair of jeans or joggers, so you’ll want to wear it all season long. It has a drawstring hood and drawstring waist, and oversized front pockets for convenience. Bonus: It’s also made of recycled fabric and filled with recycled down insulation.
Pros:
Casual design makes this pick easier to dress up (or down)
Sizes: 0-14 | Colors: 2 | Materials: Polyester (recycled and new), 600-fill goose down insulation
This puffer has a cinchable waist so you can pull it in tight, or leave extra room to layer underneath. The 600-fill goose down insulation will help keep your torso toasty, while the recycled polyester exterior helps keep wind and water at bay. Plus, it has a removable hood and it comes in classic colors so you’re sure to find something to match your wardrobe.
A classic wool coat is a closet essential. This one from Quince is made with Italian wool to wrap you in cozy warmth. It’s lined, has a standing collar, and inconspicuous side pockets for a sleek, stylish look.
When it comes to insulated winter coats, you’ll want to take stock of the “fill power,” which indicates how warm the jacket will be. If you’re hoping to stay toasty with a down or down-alternative jacket, look for insulation that’s 600-fill or higher. Additionally, think about how you’ll be using your coat: if you’re looking to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding, prioritize water-resistant or waterproof materials.
How much coverage do you need?
Coverage is a matter of personal preference (and your personal style), but keeping your legs and bum warm with a long puffer coat can be extremely helpful when the temperature plummets. Still, there are plenty of warm waist-length jackets on this list if a longer fit isn’t for you.
What features are important to you in a winter coat?
The coats on our list have a variety of added bells and whistles. Whether you’re looking for a winter coat with deep pockets, a removable hood, interior shoulder straps, or built-in hand cuffs, you’ll find a coat with your desired features on this list. Just note that they sometimes come at a higher price (as with the Canada Goose pick, above).
What’s your budget?
As our list proves, you can certainly find a quality winter coat at a wide variety of prices. There are plenty of lower-priced coats on our list (as far as winter coats go, that is), but some of the more reputable brands above come with a higher price tag—they also may be more durable and even help out with repairs (as with Patagonia) down the line.
Frequently asked questions about winter coats for extreme cold
What coats are as warm as Canada Goose?
Canada Goose coats are revered for being some of the warmest jackets around, thanks to their higher fill count. Still, there are a handful of other coats on our list that have the same 600-and-up fill count, if not higher. Look for brands that offer 600- to 800-fill warmth and wind-resistant outers for maximum toastiness. The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and Cotopaxi coats we reviewed all meet that criteria.
What is a warm winter coat that is not bulky?
Puffer coats tend to be on the bulky side (all that insulation has to go somewhere!), but you can find plenty of warm jackets that keep a low profile. As mentioned above, the Athleta Whisper Featherless Parka and the Quince Italian Wool Cocoon Coat both offer a slimmer profile without compromising too much in the warmth department.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
